(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Rhys Ifans says he bonded with the notorious British drug smuggler Howard Marks when he played him in an upcoming movie.

The movie, Mr Nice, is set for release this autumn, and tells the true story of middle-class Howards career smuggling cannabis throughout the world in the 80s.

British actor Rhys admits he was starstruck when he met the notorious ex-convict, who has become an icon for people who want to legalise cannabis across the globe.

The star joked that they became friends after he asked Howard to autograph his packets of cigarette rolling papers.

I asked him to sign my Rizla packet, then I asked him to sign every Rizla in the packet...We bonded over that, he told Total Film magazine.

Rhys was quick to point out that he didnt partake in the consumption of any illegal substances in the making of the movie, as the drug is well known for causing memory loss.

You cant you forget your lines! No, the tears were real but the pot wasnt, he replied when asked if he was tempted to smoke cannabis in order to get into character.

The movie also stars Chlo Sevigny as Howards wife Judy Marks. (C) Cover Media